Bread is a staple food in the American diet. It is easy to bake, readily available in the market, tastes good, and is also easy on the pocket. But most of all, bread is comfort food that all Americans love. If you look into an American’s pantry, you are bound to find bread in there.
There are so many different ways bread is consumed – pizza bread, garlic bread, sandwiches, whole wheat bread, burger buns, and so much more. All of these are delicious and hearty ways to eat bread. And while you are enjoying your whole wheat sandwich, your pooch is staring at you with puppy dog eyes. He wants some of your sandwich.
If you’re wondering, can dogs eat bread or is bread safe for dogs, the answer is yes. Dogs can eat bread. However, not all types of bread are safe for dogs. Some of them can be lethal for dogs and should be kept away at all costs.
What are the Dangers of Eating too much Bread?
Overeating bread is unhealthy for humans and dogs alike. Research suggests that over consumption of white bread can cause obesity and weight gain. (1) Most bread also contains high levels of sugar from the wheat. And so, too much of it can cause a spike in your dog’s blood sugar levels.
Try to give your dog bread made from rye or other gluten-free grains. Even whole wheat bread is safer for your dog. The Glycemic index of white bread is double the glycemic index of rye bread. (2) (3) Research suggests that ancient types of wheat have more health benefits than modern wheat bread. (4) (5) So, try to bake bread from ancient grains for your furry friend.
If your dog is having stomach issues, the vet may recommend bland food for your dog’s healing. While plain bread may seem like a good option, there are better ones. White or brown rice with some boiled chicken might better suit your dog in such a situation. Chicken and rice have more nourishment than bread.
Most dogs like to nibble on a piece of toast of bread. And if they get to do that once in a while, it shouldn’t be an issue. However, too much of it can cause digestive distress in dogs.
Potential Dangers from Bread Dough for Dogs | How much Bread can a Dog Eat?
Freshly baked bread is one of the most delightful foods, and your pup can enjoy it once in a while. However, unbaked dough can be harmful to dogs. If your dog eats unbaked dough, it can get stuck in his intestines and cause severe digestive distress.
The active yeast will cause the dough to rise in your dog’s stomach and cause severe bloating. If your dog eats some dough and you notice adverse effects in him, take him to the vet immediately. Yeast is also known to release ethanol, which can cause alcohol toxicity in dogs. (6)
Some signs of alcohol toxicity to watch our for in your dog are vomiting, hypothermia, respiratory issues, and diarrhea.
Safe and Unsafe Bread Varieties for Dogs | Is all Bread good for Dogs to Eat ?
Safe Bread
The bread that does not have too much added sugar, preservatives, and additives are safe dogs. And the bread made with whole wheat or whole grains is a safer option than white bread.
You can also give your dog sourdough bread. Research indicates that sourdough bread is more digestible than regular bread. (7) Another study suggests that sourdough bread has positive health benefits and can improve digestive issues like IBS. (8) However, consult the vet before you give sourdough to your dog. Some vets believe that sourdough may be harmful to dogs.
You can also give your dog gluten-free bread if he is allergic to gluten. Gluten-free bread is known to have higher levels of fiber and nutritional properties. (9)
Unsafe Bread
Avoid feeding your dog bread that contains garlic. For example, garlic bread should be kept away from dogs because garlic in large amounts is toxic for dogs. The bread that includes chocolate, macadamia nuts, raisins, and grapes are also harmful to dogs. (10)
Another ingredient that is present in some types of breads is xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that many manufactures use as a replacement for sugar. While this compound is not so lethal for humans, it can be quite harmful to dogs. If your dog consumes xylitol, he may experience xylitol toxicity and can also develop hypoglycemia. (11)
As with any human food, always consult the vet before giving your dog new foods. Your pup is most likely safe if he eats a slice or two of healthy bread. But avoid giving him too much bread as that can be potentially dangerous and cause gastrointestinal issues.
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